Physics-based games have taken the world by storm. What’s more, they are normally hilarious as hell. Take Goat Simulator or Human: Fall Flat as a prime example. Their simple approach and stupid core concept make them undeniably addictive and are guaranteed to make you laugh. Consequently, when Mad Streets was released, I knew what to expect. This is one title that guarantees a competitive edge as well as some annoyingly stupid action.
Developed and published by Craftshop Arts Inc., this is an arena-based fighting game. Alongside this, there is a basic story and many clichéd moments. Now, this isn’t a complaint. No, in fact, I loved the comical writing and tongue-in-cheek humour. However, I’m aware that it won’t tickle everyone’s fancy. Subsequently, some gamers will only enjoy this at a base level. Yet, if you are a 70s or 80s child, you’ll chuckle repeatedly at its idiotic yet clever one-liners.
Mad Streets is casually brilliant.
Don’t expect Mad Streets to be some in-depth and all-consuming affair, because it isn’t. Instead, it’s casually brilliant and can be picked up and put down with ease. What’s more, it can be played solo or with up to 3 friends locally or online. On top of this, there is Cross-Play functionality, which enhances its appeal further still.
Mad Streets is made up of several modes that will test an array of skills and different approaches. The main one is the “Mad Rush” option. This mode incorporates a basic story that comprises an array of stages. Here, you must tackle set tasks to score the maximum points available. You’ll be expected to beat up an opponent, be the last man standing, or deliver goods to a set location. Each activity scores you points, and the person with the most wins the round. If you are in 1st place as the final bell tolls, you’ll be crowned the champion.
As you can tell, it isn’t that complicated. However, it is really enjoyable and super hectic. Thanks to the physics-based approach, things get messy very, very quickly. You’ll line up a powerful knockout blow, but instead, you’ll miss and fall on your face. This was particularly amusing whenever you challenged your friends. In theory, finesse and a gentle touch were needed. In reality, all hell breaks loose, and no one cares how they look. As such, prepare for messy encounters and plenty of laughter.
Plenty of meat on the bone.
Though there is little depth to the core concept, there is still plenty of meat on the bone. You can try a royal rumble, the last man standing, free play, 1 punch knockout, and much more. Each of these modes can be played with up to 4 players and an array of stages and characters can be selected. Now, this may seem limited in its approach, but it really isn’t. Accordingly, every option has a different impact on how each fight plays out. With an array of whacky locations to explore, and burly fighters to pick from, you never quite know what to expect.
On top of this, each game mode is unsurprisingly competitive. Consequently, beating the snot out of your opponents really gets the juices flowing. Therefore, I was disappointed that the online servers were deserted. Other than playing with some close friends, I never interacted with other players. This was particularly disconcerting, as this is a Cross-Play title. I’d have thought the lobbies would be brimming with would-be fighters. However, it was a ghost town at all times. This lack of action sadly leaves a bitter taste in your mouth, as you are desperately left wanting much more.
Mad Streets is a colourful arcade experience.
As expected, this fast-paced brawler is colourful with a dated arcade aesthetic. Its larger-than-life characters fill the screen with bulging muscles and revealing costumes. This phenomenal throwback to 90s gaming reminded me of Street Fighter and Dead or Alive. Furthermore, I adored the vivid settings and how they influenced much of the action. Though the tight spaces were claustrophobic and difficult to navigate, they ensured that each battle was hectic, with little room to escape.
Alongside the bright imagery was some incredibly boisterous audio. The loud and rambunctious sound effects add energy to this aggressive title. As such, Mad Streets is a cacophony of sound that doesn’t quit. You’ll adore the familiar commentary of “Let’s Get Ready To Rumbleeeeee” as each battle commences. Alongside this, the comical OTT slaps and punches will make you wince. In short, it is delightfully crude and bloody amusing as well.
Standard physics-based annoyances.
If you are familiar with physics-based games, then you’ll know how annoying they can be. The controls are painfully loose while being oddly accurate. This combination worked perfectly in the arena as you could time your big shots to devastating effect. However, if you get it wrong, you leave yourself open to being pummelled relentlessly. Now, this may sound awful, but it was one of the brilliant elements of this amusing title. Though the controls take a bit of getting used to, the excellent layout is easy to understand. Thankfully, this means that you can jump right on in and start fighting.
If you are expecting a deep and fulfilling experience, then you’ll be disappointed. However, if you want a casual and amusing arena brawler, then look no further. With plenty of stages and characters to unlock and many “Mad Rush” stories to complete, this will keep you busy. Accordingly, there is some longevity to be enjoyed. Yet, it lacks replay value because its servers are dead. If more players get involved, this will be a moreish and silly game that will entertain for hours.
Mad Streets is stupid but brilliant.
Its concept is undeniably stupid. But I loved it, nonetheless. There is something brilliant about a simple arcade fighting game, and Mad Streets has this excellent idea at its core. Subsequently, it is a great casual game that is brilliant with friends. Sadly, though, its lack of an online community is hampering its potential and will hold it back. However, this didn’t put me off and I recommend you to buy it here! Can you defeat everyone you encounter? Throw some punches, avoid some blows, and be crowned the champion.
